Glacier 3000 – Diablerets| Switzerland’s Magical Mountain Destination
Picture this: breathtaking panoramic vistas that range from lush green forests to snowy white peaks and majestic mountain ranges. Its peaceful and serene atmosphere, combined with its spectacular natural beauty, makes it a truly unique holiday destination. This is the impressive Glacier 3000 – a mountain paradise located in the Swiss Alps in the region of Diablerets.
This popular mountain resort is not just a place for sightseeing but also an outstanding destination for hikers and sports enthusiasts. Skiers and snowboarders flock to its slopes, seeking the perfect run through the powdery snow.
There are many thrilling and relaxing things to do at Glacier 3000 – Whether you are seeking adventure or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Glacier 3000 has something for everyone.
Keep reading to learn more about all the amazing adventures and experiences this magical resort has to offer.
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Overview: Glacier 3000
Glacier 3000 is a sizeable mountain resort in the beautiful Canton of Vaud in western Switzerland, close to the French border. The region has diverse natural surroundings, making it a perfect place to explore the great outdoors. The resort lies less than 90 miles from the country’s capital, Bern, which is a fantastic starting point for a great Switzerland road trip.
The stunning resort covers a significant area with a network of ski runs that stretches over 15 miles of pristine snow-covered slopes. At an altitude of around 9,824 feet, it provides stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including the picturesque peaks of the Bernese Alps.
Location of Glacier 3000
Glacier 3000 is easily accessible from the popular nearby town of Gstaad. This enchanting village sits less than 10 miles from the resort. But it is also a popular day trip from places like Geneva, Montreux, or Thun.
Best Time to Visit Glacier 3000
The best time to visit Glacier 3000 depends on your interests and preferences.
Snow blankets Glacier 3000 throughout the year due to its high altitude and climate. Snow-capped peaks and sparkling glaciers surround the resort, transforming it into a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. It is open year-round, but ski season typically runs from late November to late April. It also offers activities such as ice skating, cross-country skiing, and toboggan runs.
The fun continues when the snow starts melting, as spring, summer, and fall (mid-March to mid-November) bring their own range of outdoor activities. Hikers and mountain bikers will enjoy the scenic trails winding through alpine meadows and past sparkling mountain streams. Other summer activities available at the resort include mini-golf, rock climbing, and paragliding.
Certain activities and attractions are only open during specific months or depending on the weather. It is a good idea to check the weather forecast and any local events that may be taking place before planning your trip.
No matter what time of the year you visit the resort, its natural beauty, and exciting attractions are sure to take your breath away.
Glacier 3000 Over the Years
Since the installation of the first ski lifts at Glacier 3000 in the 1950s, the resort has rapidly gained popularity as a winter sports destination. In the years that followed, the resort worked to continually improve its facilities. For example, they added new ski runs and lifts to keep up with the demand from enthusiasts.
During the 1980s, the resort expanded its offerings to include summer activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. This made it a popular destination year-round. Over the following decades, the resort continued to develop, and it now features a number of restaurants and bars, a spa, and a wellness center. Today, visitors flock to the popular resort for its stunning scenery, expansive network of ski runs, and wide range of activities for all ages.
Unfortunately, Glacier 3000 is one of many icy mountains and landscapes to be affected by the effects of global warming. In 2022, the resort experienced an ice melt three times the 10-year average. This was a double-edged sword as this accelerated the melting of the glacier but it also opened up a new hiking route last seen around 2000 years ago.
How to Get to Glacier 3000
I will be the first to admit, that the location of Glacier 3000 is “not the best” – it is quite remote from many other popular destinations like Lucerne, Interlaken, or St.Moritz. However, it is worth it – especially if you combine it with a trip to the pretty village of Gstaad.
There is a bus connection from Gstaad – the yellow bus nr. 180 (Postauto) will drop you off at the lower cable car station – Col du Pillon, Glacier 3000.
If you get there by car, you can park for free at the cable car station – type “Col du Pillon, Glacier 3000″ in your GPS and you will be directed to the right address.
- FROM BERN: It takes about 90 minutes from Bern to get to the lower cable car station and about 2,5 hours by public transportation.
- FROM GSTAAD: It is just a 30-minute (scenic) car or bus ride from Gstaad.
Then take the big gondola that brings you to the middle station – Cabane – where you have to change gondolas. That one will get you to the top. The views from the cable cars are pretty!
Opening Hours Glacier 3000 – 2023
- Winter season: 12th November 2022 to 7th May 2023 – from 9 am to 4:30 pm (gondola departs every 20 minutes)
- Summer season: 7th May to 15th October 2023 – from 9 am to 4:50 pm (gondola departs every 20 minutes)
How to Buy Tickets For Glacier 3000
I bought my ticket online here. Keep in mind you get a 50% discount with a Swiss Travel Pass, a GA, Half Fare etc. Make sure to buy the discounted ticket in that case.
Without that discount, a retour ticket is about 85 CHF.
Restaurants at Glacier 3000
There are two restaurants 1) Col Du Pillon at the lower cable car station and 2) Le Carnotzet at the mountain station. There are two more restaurants that can be reached via hiking – 1) Refuge l’Espace (about one hour to get there from the mountain station) and 2) Les Diablerets (5 minutes hike from mid-station Cabane).
Popular Attractions at Glacier 3000
Glacier 3000 is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and thrill of the Swiss Alps. Although there are many thrilling adventures, the Alpine Coaster, Peak Walk, and Glacier Walk are some of the highlights the resort has to offer.
The main reason to visit are the views in my honest opinion, but there is more to it.
Experience the Alpine Coaster
One of the most exciting attractions at Glacier 3000 is the famous Alpine Coaster. This thrilling ride is similar to a rollercoaster that takes visitors through the stunning landscape of the Swiss Alps.
It has a series of twists and turns, loops, and drops that are sure to get your heart racing. 520° circles, 10 curves, 6 waves, and 3 jumps with speeds of up to 40 km/hour on a one-kilometer stretch – as the highest ride of its kind in the world, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Mount Blanc, Matterhorn, and Jungfrau.
- One ride is about 9 CHF
The Peak Walk by Tissot
The Peak Walk by Tissot is a thrilling experience combining breathtaking scenery with unique and innovative architecture. Located at the summit of Glacier 3000, the 80-centimeter-wide bridge sits at a dizzying altitude of 9,700 feet.
It stretches across 351 feet (107 meters), from the smaller peak known as the view Point to the higher elevation of Scex Rouge Mountain.
As the only suspension bridge in the world connecting two mountain peaks, it is a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or simply looking for a unique way to take in the beauty of the Swiss Alps, the Peak Walk is an unmissable experience. You can even see the famous Swiss mountains like the Matterhorn, Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau, or the French Mont Blanc.
- Free
Enjoy the Glacier Walk
The Glacier Walk at the resort is a trail that takes visitors on a walk across the ridge of Glacier 3000. Either start directly at the Scex Rouge mountain station or ride with the chairlift to the walk’s starting point, allowing spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
A guide will then lead you across the glacier, pointing out interesting geological features and providing information about the history and environment of the resort. You can explore the frozen landscape at your own pace, taking in the scenery and immersing yourself in the beauty of the Alps. However, you can also do the Glacier Walk on your own, which makes it another free activity at Glacier 3000.
While I did the hike in August – after a couple of very hot weeks – the glacier was mostly melted. For the best experience, I think late spring or the early summer would be better.
- Free
Dogsled Rides
Husky dogs are at home in the snow – they like to move and run in the snow. And at Glacier 3000, these Huskies pull you through the beautiful glacier landscape and allow you to have a very special experience.
While I try to avoid any activities that include animals for ethical reasons, I do believe that dogsledding in a country like Switzerland is not unethical. I have not done it myself but it is something you can do at Glacier 3000.
Winter Sports at Snowpark
Glacier 300 has a full snowpark in November – from then, until early January, the snowpark allows winter sports enthusiasts to enjoy snowboarding and skiing.
Whether you are a beginner, expert, or pro – here is something for everyone and this is why it is a very popular skiing destination in the region. But also cross-country skiing is popular here – the 7 km trail covers most of the Tsanfleuron Glacier surface. And depending on the snow conditions, you can also do this activity even from April through December.
FINAL THOUGHTS: DAY TRIP TO GLACIER 3000
I am all about great mountain views in Switzerland – my plan is to eventually get up any mountain peak accessible via cable car/funicular. The views from Glacier 3000 are some of the best, though not in my personal top 10. There are just too many other great mountain viewpoints that offer even more stunning panoramas – however, I do believe it is a must-see if you are in the area and the many activities offered at Glacier 3000 make it a great day trip from Gstaad, Montreux, Thun, Bern or other places nearby.